Are cold sores contagious?

<p>Are cold sores contagious? Absolutely, although it is only while you actually have a sore that the virus can be spread.

Normally the virus lies dormant in the nerve cells, at which point you don’t need to worry, but when it activates and makes its way to the surface of the skin you need to be careful. One of the most important facts to remember about cold sores is that if you are a sufferer you can spread the virus not only to other people, but to other areas of your own body too. Always wash your hands thoroughly while you have a cold sore and avoid touching it whenever possible.